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International Destinations
Beautiful Belize
If you are looking for a laid-back escape from the pressures
of modern life, the tiny island community of Caye Caulker,
Belize is likely to fit the bill. The friendly village of
about 900 people has a long history of welcoming foreigners
who are ready to exit the fast lane, whether for a few hours,
a couple of weeks or even permanently.
“Our streets are soft, white sand and our taxis are
golf carts,” says islander Dane Dingerson. “Many
people get around by bicycle or stroll barefoot.”
Only four miles long, Caye Caulker is part of a chain of
palm-shaded islands that follow a coral barrier reef along
the eastern edge of Belize. At this point the reef is less
than a mile offshore, providing excellent opportunities for
snorkelling, diving and fishing. The area has warm, crystalline
waters that are also superb for windsurfing, sailing, and
sea kayaking. Another activity is observing endangered West
Indian manatees.
Founded by English pirates and coconut growers, Caye Caulker
is today home to a rainbow mix of residents descended from
African, Maya, Mexican and European ancestors. This has yielded
a tolerant and easygoing local culture whose customs and language
reflect diverse traditions. Besides tourism, fishing is the
primary economic activity.
Accommodations are available in every price and amenity range,
one possibility is the Lazy Iguana Bed and Breakfast, located
in a four-story private home at the north end of the village,
which offers a panoramic 360-degree view of Caye Caulker and
the Caribbean beyond from its roof-top palapa deck. Rates
for the Lazy Iguana’s four guest rooms, with air conditioning
and a private bath, range from US $75 U.S. to $100 per night
during the Spring and summer.
Most restaurants in Caye Caulker are along the beach, and
as you would expect, seafood is a specialty, Several outfitters
offer diving, snorkelling, fishing, sailing and wildlife observation
trips. Nightlife centres around the island’s several
bars, some of which have live music on occasion. Many visitors
simply relax, often with a rum punch in hand, and enjoy the
intensely bright stars in the tropical sky.
For more information about Caye Caulker, see www.cayecaulker.net.
Elsewhere in Belize. . .
How about taking up residence in a jungle tree house? Hamanasi
Dive and Adventure Resort, located near Hopkins in Belize’s
Stann Creek District, features four deluxe tree houses completed
this spring. The luxuriously appointed tree houses are raised
12 feet, surrounded by a variety of trees, flowers and birds,
and situated for more maximum privacy. The property has 12
other beachfront rooms and suites, a pool, bar, restaurant
and full-service dive facility. It also offers dive and snorkel
trips and inland tours.
Looking for something a little more up-tempo? Ambergris Caye
is the largest and most popular of Belize’s islands.
This summer several resorts are offering special package deals.
Xanadu Resort is on an inviting palm-lined beach within easy
walking distance of the island’s main town of San Pedro.
Until November 15, they are offering guests staying a minimum
of seven nights an extra night free, or they can stay four
nights and receive a 10 per cent discount. Accommodation is
in two-bedroom condominiums with large shaded decks that overlook
the Caribbean. Rates are US $125 per day from May to November,
US $165 per day from November to May. Other resorts, including
the Banana Beach Resort, Belizean Shores and Coral Bay Villas
are offering discounted rate packages from US $82,50 per night.
For more information on these or other Belize packages, see
www.belizespecials.com.
For all types of information about Belize call the Belize
Tourism Board’s toll-free number,
1-800-624-0686 or see their website, www.belize.net.
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